Electoral Systems Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is an electoral system?
A method by which votes are translated into seats in a legislature or for public office.
What voting system is used for UK general elections?
First Past the Post (FPTP).
How does First Past the Post work?
The candidate with the most votes in a single-member constituency wins; no majority is needed.
What are the key advantages of FPTP?
It is simple, quick, and often produces strong, single-party governments, produces strong MP-constituency link
What are the disadvantages of FPTP?
It can produce disproportionate results, wasted votes, and safe seats.
What is the Additional Member System (AMS) used for?
It is used in Scottish Parliament and Welsh Senedd elections, combining FPTP and proportional representation.
How does AMS promote proportionality?
By using regional lists to top up seats to better match vote shares.
What is the Single Transferable Vote (STV)?
A proportional system where voters rank candidates and seats are allocated based on quotas and transfers.
What is the Supplementary Vote (SV) system used for?
Used for electing mayors and Police and Crime Commissioners; voters select a first and second choice.
What is a key criticism of proportional systems like STV?
They can lead to weak coalition governments and complex voting/counting processes.
What is meant by a safe seat?
A constituency where the same party wins by a large margin in every election.
What is a marginal seat?
A constituency where small changes in votes can lead to a different party winning – crucial in elections.
Which system is used for London Mayoral elections?
Supplementary Vote (SV).
